Legal claims defining the scope of protection. Each claim is shown in both the original legal language and a plain English translation.
1. A method for establishing and managing communication between mobile devices of a mobile ad-hoc network (MANET), the method comprising: receiving, at a network controller over a first control channel, service request signals from a first and second mobile devices; establishing, using the network controller, a network topology for the MANET by: assigning, over the first control channel, the first and second mobile devices to function as a first and a second node controller of the MANET, respectively; assigning, over the first control channel, a first data channel between the network controller and the first node controller; and assigning, over the first control channel, a second data channel between the network controller and the second node controller, wherein channel frequency profiles of the first and second channels are determined based on a number of hops between the first and second node controllers; receiving, at the network controller, a third service request signal forwarded by the first node controller to the network controller, wherein the third service request came from a third mobile device not connected to the MANET; adding the third mobile device to the MANET by assigning, at the network controller, a third data channel between the first node controller and the third mobile device over a second control channel between the third mobile device and the first node controller; using the network controller, determining data packets paths over the MANET based the established network topology.
This invention relates to a method for establishing and managing communication in a mobile ad-hoc network (MANET) where mobile devices dynamically form a network without fixed infrastructure. The method addresses the challenge of efficiently organizing and maintaining communication links in a decentralized, mobile environment where devices frequently join or leave the network. A network controller receives service request signals from multiple mobile devices over a first control channel. The controller assigns roles to these devices, designating some as node controllers responsible for managing communication within the network. The controller establishes a network topology by assigning data channels between itself and the node controllers, with channel frequency profiles determined based on the number of hops between node controllers to optimize connectivity. When a new mobile device requests to join the network, its request is forwarded to the network controller by an existing node controller. The network controller then adds the new device by assigning a data channel between the node controller and the new device over a second control channel. The controller continuously determines optimal data packet paths across the MANET based on the established topology, ensuring efficient routing of communications. This method enables dynamic, scalable, and self-organizing communication in MANETs, improving reliability and performance in environments where infrastructure is unavailable or unreliable.
2. The method of claim 1 , wherein determining the data packet paths comprises: at the network controller, creating a forwarding table; and at the network controller, downloading the forwarding table to one or more of the nodes using an OpenFlow protocol.
This invention relates to network traffic management in software-defined networking (SDN) environments. The problem addressed is the need for efficient and centralized control of data packet routing across network nodes to optimize performance and reduce congestion. The method involves determining optimal data packet paths within a network by creating a forwarding table at a network controller. This forwarding table contains routing instructions for directing data packets through the network. The network controller then downloads this forwarding table to one or more network nodes using the OpenFlow protocol, a standardized communication protocol for SDN. The forwarding table ensures that each node in the network knows how to forward incoming data packets based on the controller's centralized decisions. This approach allows for dynamic and adaptive routing, improving network efficiency and reducing latency by avoiding suboptimal paths. The use of OpenFlow enables seamless integration with existing SDN infrastructure, ensuring compatibility and scalability. The method enhances network performance by centralizing control and dynamically adjusting routing decisions in real-time.
3. The method of claim 1 , wherein assigning the first mobile device to function as the first node controller further comprises: receiving resources information from the first mobile device; determining whether the first mobile device should function as a node controller based on the received resources information.
A system and method for dynamically assigning mobile devices to function as node controllers in a wireless network. The technology addresses the challenge of efficiently managing network resources by leveraging mobile devices with sufficient capabilities to act as controllers, thereby improving network performance and reliability. The method involves selecting a first mobile device to function as a node controller based on its available resources. This selection process includes receiving resource information from the mobile device, such as processing power, memory, and battery status, and evaluating whether the device meets the necessary criteria to serve as a controller. If the device is determined to be suitable, it is assigned the role of node controller, enabling it to manage network operations, such as routing, resource allocation, and coordination with other devices. This dynamic assignment ensures that only capable devices are used as controllers, optimizing network efficiency and reducing the risk of overloading or underutilizing resources. The approach is particularly useful in decentralized or ad-hoc networks where traditional infrastructure may be limited or unavailable.
4. The method of claim 3 , wherein the resources information comprises remaining battery life, processing power availability, frequency channel availability, and network visibility information.
This invention relates to resource management in wireless communication systems, particularly for optimizing device performance based on available resources. The method involves collecting and analyzing resource information from a wireless device to determine optimal operational parameters. The resource information includes remaining battery life, processing power availability, frequency channel availability, and network visibility. By evaluating these factors, the system can adjust device operations to improve efficiency, such as conserving battery power when levels are low or selecting the most reliable frequency channel based on network conditions. The method ensures that the device operates within its capabilities while maintaining connectivity and performance. This approach is useful in scenarios where devices must balance power consumption, processing demands, and network access to function effectively. The system dynamically adapts to changing conditions, such as fluctuating battery levels or varying network availability, to sustain optimal performance. The solution addresses challenges in managing limited resources in wireless devices, ensuring reliable operation under diverse environmental and operational constraints.
5. The method of claim 1 , wherein frequency profiles of first and second data channels are based on physical distance between the first and second node controllers.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically optimizing data transmission between node controllers in a network. The problem addressed is inefficient data transmission due to interference and suboptimal frequency allocation between nearby node controllers. The solution involves dynamically adjusting frequency profiles for data channels based on the physical distance between node controllers to minimize interference and improve communication reliability. The method includes determining the physical distance between a first node controller and a second node controller. Frequency profiles for first and second data channels are then generated based on this distance. The frequency profiles define the frequency bands used for transmitting data between the node controllers. The method further involves transmitting data over the first data channel from the first node controller to the second node controller and receiving data over the second data channel from the second node controller to the first node controller. The frequency profiles are adjusted in real-time to account for changes in distance or environmental conditions, ensuring optimal performance. This approach improves communication efficiency by reducing interference and optimizing frequency usage, particularly in dense network environments where node controllers are closely located. The dynamic adjustment of frequency profiles based on physical distance ensures reliable data transmission while minimizing resource wastage.
6. The method of claim 5 , wherein the physical distance between the first and second node controllers is determined by comparing GPS coordinates of the first and second node controllers.
This invention relates to a system for determining the physical distance between two node controllers in a network. The problem addressed is the need for accurate and reliable distance measurement between network nodes, particularly in distributed or decentralized systems where precise spatial relationships are critical for operations such as routing, localization, or coordination. The method involves using GPS coordinates to calculate the physical distance between a first node controller and a second node controller. Each node controller is equipped with GPS capabilities, allowing it to obtain its own geographic coordinates. The system then compares the GPS coordinates of the two node controllers to compute the distance between them. This approach leverages existing GPS infrastructure to provide a straightforward and scalable solution for distance measurement, eliminating the need for additional hardware or complex signal-based distance estimation techniques. The method may be part of a broader system where node controllers communicate with each other to perform tasks such as data routing, synchronization, or environmental monitoring. By determining the physical distance between nodes, the system can optimize network performance, ensure accurate spatial awareness, and enhance reliability in applications where node positioning is critical. The use of GPS coordinates ensures high precision and compatibility with existing global positioning standards.
7. The method of claim 1 , wherein a frequency profile of the third data channel is assigned based on one or more other frequency profiles of other channels connecting the first node controller to one or more other mobile devices.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically methods for optimizing frequency channel assignments in networks with multiple mobile devices. The problem addressed is inefficient spectrum utilization, which can lead to interference, reduced data rates, or dropped connections in crowded or dynamic environments. The method involves assigning a frequency profile to a data channel connecting a first node controller to a mobile device. The frequency profile is determined based on the frequency profiles of other channels already established between the same node controller and other mobile devices. By analyzing existing channel assignments, the system avoids overlapping or conflicting frequencies, ensuring better signal quality and network performance. The approach dynamically adapts to changing conditions, such as device movement or new connections, by continuously evaluating and adjusting frequency allocations. The method may also incorporate additional factors, such as signal strength, interference levels, or device capabilities, to further refine channel assignments. This ensures optimal use of available spectrum while minimizing disruptions. The solution is particularly useful in dense networks where multiple devices compete for limited frequency resources.
8. The method of claim 1 , wherein the third unconnected mobile device is out of communication range of the network controller, wherein the network controller is a mobile device.
A system and method for managing communication between mobile devices in a network where a network controller is also a mobile device. The invention addresses the challenge of maintaining connectivity and coordination among mobile devices when one or more devices are outside the communication range of the network controller. The network controller, acting as a central coordinator, establishes and manages communication links between connected mobile devices. When a third mobile device is out of range of the network controller, the system ensures that the device can still participate in the network by relaying data through other connected devices. The method involves detecting the communication status of each mobile device, determining whether a device is within range of the network controller, and dynamically adjusting communication paths to maintain network functionality. The network controller may use proximity-based or signal-strength-based techniques to assess connectivity and reroute data as needed. This approach ensures that even when a device is temporarily out of range, the network remains operational, improving reliability in mobile ad-hoc networks. The invention is particularly useful in scenarios where mobile devices must coordinate tasks or share data in environments with variable connectivity, such as emergency response, military operations, or industrial applications.
9. The method of claim 1 , wherein establishing the control channel comprises selecting a common in-band channel as the control channel, wherein the common in-band channel is restricted for only channel provisioning communication.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically methods for establishing and managing control channels between devices. The problem addressed is the need for efficient and secure communication setup in wireless networks, particularly for provisioning new devices or reconfiguring existing ones. Traditional methods often rely on out-of-band signaling or dedicated control channels, which can be inefficient or unreliable. The invention describes a method where a common in-band channel is selected as the control channel for provisioning communication. This channel is restricted exclusively for channel provisioning, ensuring that it is not used for regular data transmission. By using an in-band channel, the method avoids the need for separate out-of-band signaling, simplifying the setup process. The restriction ensures that provisioning messages are prioritized and not interfered with by other traffic. This approach improves reliability and reduces latency during device provisioning, making it suitable for applications requiring quick and secure setup, such as IoT networks or dynamic wireless configurations. The method may also include steps for authenticating devices and negotiating communication parameters before transitioning to regular data transmission.
10. The method of claim 1 , wherein the control channel is a predetermined out-of-band channel.
A method for wireless communication involves using a control channel to manage data transmission between devices. The control channel is a predetermined out-of-band channel, meaning it operates at a frequency or bandwidth separate from the main data transmission channel. This separation helps reduce interference and improve reliability by isolating control signals from data traffic. The method may include establishing the control channel, transmitting control signals over this channel, and using the signals to coordinate data transmission parameters such as timing, frequency, and power levels. By using an out-of-band control channel, the system ensures that control information remains unaffected by fluctuations or congestion in the data channel, leading to more stable and efficient communication. This approach is particularly useful in environments with high interference or dynamic channel conditions, where maintaining a dedicated control path enhances overall system performance.
11. A mobile ad-hoc network comprising: a mobile network controller, a first mobile node controller coupled to the network controller over a first data channel assigned by the network controller; a second mobile node controller coupled to the network controller over a second data channel assigned by the network controller, wherein frequency profiles of the first and second data channels are assigned based on characteristics of the first and second node controllers; a first mobile device communicatively connected to the first node controller over a third data channel assigned by the network controller; and a second unconnected mobile device within communication range of the first node controller and outside of communication range of the network controller, wherein the first node controller is configured to forward a discovery broadcast signal received from the second unconnected mobile device to the network controller, wherein the network controller is configured to assign a fourth data channel for data transfer between the second mobile device and the first node controller based on a frequency profile of the third data channel; wherein the network controller is configured to determine data packets paths over the ad-hoc mobile network based on source and destination addresses of the data packets using a software defined network manager; and wherein the assignment of the frequency profiles of first and second data channels based on the characteristics of the first and second node controllers depends on a number of hops between the first and second node controllers.
A mobile ad-hoc network system dynamically manages communication channels and device connectivity in environments where traditional infrastructure is unavailable. The network includes a central controller that assigns data channels to mobile node controllers based on their characteristics, such as processing capacity or mobility patterns. Each node controller connects to mobile devices over additional channels, with frequency profiles optimized for efficient data transfer. The system supports unconnected devices by relaying discovery signals from devices outside the network's direct range to the central controller, which then assigns a new channel for communication. The controller uses a software-defined network manager to route data packets based on source and destination addresses, ensuring optimal path selection. Channel assignments between node controllers depend on factors like the number of hops between them, improving network efficiency. This approach enhances connectivity in dynamic, decentralized networks by intelligently managing resources and adapting to changing conditions.
12. The mobile ad-hoc network of claim 11 , wherein the network controller is configured to determine whether the second unconnected mobile device should function as a node controller based on resources information received from the second mobile device.
A mobile ad-hoc network system includes a network controller that manages communication between mobile devices without relying on fixed infrastructure. The network dynamically establishes connections between devices, allowing them to relay data to extend coverage. A key challenge in such networks is efficiently selecting which devices should act as node controllers to optimize performance and resource usage. The network controller evaluates whether a second unconnected mobile device should function as a node controller by analyzing resource information received from that device. This resource information may include processing power, battery level, available bandwidth, or other operational capabilities. By assessing these factors, the network controller determines if the device is suitable for managing network functions, such as routing data or coordinating connections. This ensures that only capable devices take on controller roles, improving network stability and efficiency. The system dynamically adjusts node controller assignments as conditions change, maintaining optimal performance in a decentralized environment.
13. The mobile ad-hoc network of claim 12 , wherein the resources information comprises remaining battery life, processing power availability, frequency channel availability, and network visibility information.
A mobile ad-hoc network (MANET) is a decentralized wireless network where devices dynamically form connections without relying on fixed infrastructure. A key challenge in MANETs is efficiently managing and allocating resources among nodes to ensure reliable communication and optimal performance. This invention addresses this challenge by enhancing the network with detailed resource information to improve routing and resource allocation decisions. The network includes multiple mobile devices that communicate directly with each other, forming a self-organizing topology. Each device collects and shares resource information with neighboring nodes, enabling the network to make informed decisions about data transmission paths and resource utilization. The resource information includes remaining battery life, processing power availability, frequency channel availability, and network visibility information. Battery life data helps prioritize nodes with sufficient power to avoid premature failures. Processing power availability ensures tasks are assigned to devices capable of handling them without overloading any single node. Frequency channel availability helps avoid interference by selecting the best available channels for communication. Network visibility information indicates which nodes are currently reachable, aiding in dynamic routing adjustments. By integrating these resource metrics, the network can optimize routing, balance load distribution, and maintain connectivity even as nodes move or change state. This improves overall network efficiency, reliability, and adaptability in dynamic environments.
14. The mobile ad-hoc network of claim 11 , wherein the assignment of the frequency profiles of first and second data channels based on the characteristics of the first and second node controllers depends on locations of the first and second node controllers.
A mobile ad-hoc network system dynamically assigns frequency profiles to data channels based on the characteristics and locations of node controllers within the network. The network includes multiple node controllers that communicate via wireless links, where each node controller manages one or more data channels. The frequency profiles assigned to these channels are determined by the specific characteristics of the node controllers, such as their processing capabilities, available bandwidth, or signal quality. Additionally, the assignment process considers the physical locations of the node controllers to optimize communication efficiency, reduce interference, and ensure reliable data transmission. By dynamically adjusting the frequency profiles based on both controller characteristics and geographic positioning, the network adapts to changing conditions, improving overall performance and reliability in dynamic environments. This approach is particularly useful in scenarios where node mobility or environmental factors could disrupt communication, such as in military, emergency response, or remote sensing applications. The system ensures that data channels are allocated in a way that maximizes throughput while minimizing conflicts and latency.
15. The mobile ad-hoc network of claim 14 , wherein the location is determined by GPS coordinates received from each controller.
A mobile ad-hoc network system enables decentralized communication between multiple controllers without relying on fixed infrastructure. Each controller in the network is equipped with GPS capabilities to determine its precise location using GPS coordinates. These coordinates are shared among the controllers to establish and maintain network connectivity, allowing dynamic routing and data exchange. The system dynamically adjusts network topology based on real-time location data, ensuring efficient communication even as controllers move. This approach eliminates the need for centralized management, improving resilience and adaptability in environments where fixed infrastructure is unavailable or unreliable. The GPS-based location determination ensures accurate positioning, enabling optimal routing decisions and minimizing latency. The network supports various applications, including emergency response, military operations, and disaster recovery, where reliable and flexible communication is critical. By leveraging GPS coordinates, the system enhances situational awareness and coordination among distributed controllers.
16. The mobile ad-hoc network of claim 11 , wherein the network controller and each of the node controllers are configured to communicate with each other on a control channel.
A mobile ad-hoc network (MANET) is a decentralized wireless network where nodes dynamically establish connections without fixed infrastructure. A key challenge in such networks is maintaining efficient communication and coordination among nodes, especially in dynamic environments where nodes frequently join, leave, or move. This invention addresses this problem by implementing a network controller and multiple node controllers, each configured to communicate with one another on a dedicated control channel. The network controller manages overall network operations, while each node controller oversees individual nodes or groups of nodes. The control channel ensures reliable exchange of control messages, such as routing updates, synchronization signals, and network configuration commands, even as nodes move or change state. This dedicated channel prevents control traffic from interfering with data transmission, improving network stability and performance. The system dynamically adjusts communication parameters to adapt to changing network conditions, ensuring seamless operation in mobile environments. By centralizing control functions while allowing distributed decision-making, the network achieves robust and scalable coordination among nodes.
17. The mobile ad-hoc network of claim 16 , wherein the control channel is a predetermined out-of-band channel.
A mobile ad-hoc network (MANET) is a decentralized wireless network where devices dynamically establish connections without fixed infrastructure. A key challenge in MANETs is maintaining reliable communication in dynamic environments with limited bandwidth and interference. This invention addresses the problem by using a predetermined out-of-band control channel to manage network operations separately from data transmission. The network includes multiple nodes that communicate via wireless links. A control channel, distinct from the data channels, is designated for transmitting control messages such as routing updates, synchronization signals, and network management commands. By using an out-of-band channel, the system avoids congestion on data channels, ensuring efficient and uninterrupted control signaling. The predetermined nature of the control channel simplifies node coordination, as all devices are preconfigured to monitor and transmit on this specific channel. Nodes in the network dynamically form and maintain connections based on proximity and signal strength. The control channel facilitates this by enabling nodes to exchange topology information and adjust routing paths without disrupting data flows. This separation of control and data traffic improves network robustness, especially in high-mobility scenarios where frequent topology changes occur. The out-of-band approach also reduces interference, as control messages do not compete with data transmissions for bandwidth. This solution is particularly useful in scenarios where real-time communication and low latency are critical, such as emergency response networks, military applications, or vehicular ad-hoc networks (VANETs). By dedicating a separate channel for control functions, the network achieves better
18. The mobile ad-hoc network of claim 16 , wherein the network controller is configured to create a forwarding table and downloading the forwarding table to one or more of the nodes using OpenFlow protocol.
A mobile ad-hoc network (MANET) is a decentralized, self-configuring network where nodes communicate without fixed infrastructure. A key challenge in MANETs is efficiently routing data packets between nodes, especially in dynamic environments where node positions and network topology frequently change. Traditional routing methods often struggle with scalability, latency, and adaptability to rapid topology changes. This invention addresses these issues by implementing a network controller that dynamically manages routing within the MANET. The controller creates a forwarding table, which maps optimal paths between nodes based on current network conditions. This table is then distributed to one or more nodes using the OpenFlow protocol, a standardized software-defined networking (SDN) approach that enables centralized control of network forwarding decisions. By leveraging OpenFlow, the system ensures consistent, real-time updates to routing information across the network, improving efficiency and reliability. The network controller monitors node connectivity and adjusts the forwarding table as needed, allowing the MANET to adapt to changes in node mobility or link availability. This centralized control mechanism reduces the overhead of distributed routing protocols while maintaining flexibility. The use of OpenFlow ensures compatibility with existing SDN infrastructure, making the solution scalable and deployable in various MANET applications, such as military communications, disaster recovery, or IoT sensor networks. The invention enhances routing performance by combining dynamic table updates with standardized protocol support.
Unknown
September 22, 2020
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